Leeds United youngster Max McFadden has signed his first professional contract following an impressive season with the club’s Under-18s. McFadden joined the Whites from Colchester United’s academy last summer, having previously represented West Ham United at youth level, and he has now put pen to paper on a deal that will run until the summer of 2024.
The attacking midfielder, who can also play up front or on either one of the flanks, made 23 appearances for the U18s last season, including an impressive showing in the FA Youth Cup against Accrington Stanley when he notched a goal and two assists. He hit the back of the net four times throughout the course of the season, while he also recorded an eye-catching total of seven assists.
McFadden’s form saw him earn a call-up to the U21 squad in January and he made three appearances for side, who were managed by Michael Skubala at time. The 17-year-old doesn’t turn 18 until October 2, but with his first professional deal in his back pocket, he’ll be keen to kick on this season and not only make a habit of appearing for the U21s but continue to make a name for himself.
Read more: The Leeds United U21 promotion heroes trying to follow James Maddison example under Daniel Farke
He won’t have to look far for inspiration either, with the likes of Mateo Joseph, Sonny Perkins and Darko Gyabi amongst those striving to step up and compete at first-team level this season.
McFadden has joined the likes of Ronnie McGrath, Connor Ferguson, Cian Coleman and, of course, Archie Gray, in penning professional contracts with the Whites in recent months on the back of their fine form within the academy.
